If you’re involved in a car accident in North Carolina, the steps you take immediately after can make quite a difference if you decide to file a personal injury claim. The personal injury attorneys at Nagle & Associates PA urge local drivers to be aware of the proper procedure after an accident occurs, to minimize injury and ensure compensation can be sought.

5 Pieces of Advice for Post-Accident Actions

1. Don’t Flee the Scene

Drivers must never leave the scene of an accident until law enforcement arrives. Doing so is considered illegal, even if you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident. Stay put and wait for the police to arrive.

2. Contact Law Enforcement

In the same token, law enforcement should be contacted immediately. In some states, police must be notified of all car accidents, even when they’re relatively minor. When police arrive, be sure to be kind and courteous, but refrain from apologizing or admitting fault.

3. Seek out Medical Attention

If injuries are severe, emergency medical services should be called to the scene. However, even if you sustain only minor injuries, it’s recommended that you get assessed by a trained medical professional as soon as possible.

4. Get Contact Information

You should also get the contact information for any other drivers involved in the accident so you can report the incident to your insurance company later. You can also ask for the information of any witnesses at the scene who may be asked to testify about what occurred.

5. Don’t Panic

Lastly, it’s crucial to remain calm after an accident. While it’s natural that emotions will run high, especially when the accident was caused by another person’s negligence, becoming combative or aggressive will only complicate the situation.

In Winston Salem, NC, Nagle & Associates PA have forged a reputation for smart, dependable legal guidance on personal injury claims relating to vehicular accidents. Schedule your consultation with a skilled personal injury attorney by calling (336) 723-4500 today. If you’d like more information on their full range of practice areas, feel free to visit them online.